What does joint profit maximization involve?

Joint profit maximization involves the collaborative actions taken by firms to enhance their overall profits as a collective group. This typically occurs in instances where firms form a coalition or engage in cooperative behaviors, allowing them to leverage their combined market power. By coordinating their strategies, such as agreeing on pricing or output levels, these firms can optimize their total profit more effectively than if they were to act independently.

In contrast, the other choices focus on individual firm strategies or competitive behaviors. Aiming for the maximum profit of individual firms only does not account for the potential benefits of cooperation. Reducing prices to increase market share might be a strategy employed by firms acting independently, which could lead to price wars rather than joint maximization. Competing vigorously to outsmart each other signifies a focus on rivalry rather than collaboration and does not align with the concept of joint profit maximization. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of collective strategies in achieving higher profit levels among cooperating firms.